Month: February, 2016

I have struggled with this question for a couple of years now. I think many who have known me and even I have known myself, as not much of a hugger. But just recently, I think I have found a breakthrough in my hug personality. Ok, I realize I may have just invented this concept but I think you understand what I mean. I actually do really like hugs. I am just not that good at hug initiation. If you think about it, this is the most difficult part of a hug. How does the person you want to hug know you want to hug them? You just open up your arms and see what happens. And with hugging, there are other logistical challenges. Like when do you let go? All of this, when it comes to hugs, should kind of be organic. But when you get right down to it, it’s not. At least not always. Through this realization, I thought it was time to bring these thoughts to the forefront of my mostly unknown blog.

I have had discussions with my brother on the importance of hugs. The conversations have mostly revolved around the facts that you never know when something drastic might happen to somebody you love. In other words, the hug you delivery today may just be your last chance to hug that person you are with. In October of last year, I had my last opportunity to hug a friend of mine who was dying of cancer. I couldn’t really know for sure at the time that it would be my last time to hug her. But, I hugged her to the best of my ability as if it was the last time. It’s these types of hugs that are the most natual and the least awkward. Unfortunately, it was the last time and I will cherish that hug forever. And I guess this is just a reminder to myself that the occasional awkwardness of a hug is worth fighting through. Because if something tragic were to occur, you would be glad you had that awkward hug than no hug at all. Getting better at hugging is still a work in progress for me. But it is important work none the less.